Sub Topic
How Clays Influence Mining Processes
Level: Intermediate
Facilitator: Heather Kaminsky, NAIT
Clays and clay minerals are ubiquitous in mining sites worldwide, yet their impact on various stages of the mining process—from geological exploration to extraction and processing—often remains underestimated. These unique materials can complicate extraction, thickening, and tailings storage, presenting significant challenges as operators increasingly turn to lower-grade ores and seek to valorize tailings to meet the rising demand for critical minerals. Understanding the distinctive properties of clay is essential for optimizing economic extraction and minimizing operational setbacks.
This course aims to equip technical professionals with a comprehensive understanding of clay properties and their implications for mining operations. Participants will learn to identify clay-related challenges and develop effective strategies to enhance operational efficiency and success in clay-affected systems. Join us to explore practical solutions that can drive innovation and improve outcomes in your mining projects.
Short Course Objectives:
Describe and discuss the properties of clays and clay minerals, including surface area, surface chemistry and plasticity.
Describe and discuss the Methylene Blue Index test, and how it is used to measure clays.
Describe and discuss the implications of clay properties on extraction and tailings management, including a review of clay-water interactions and DLVO theory.
Innovative Inspection and Sampling Solutions: Explore advanced inspection and sampling technologies designed for mining, which can enhance performance, minimize operational risks, and ensure environmental compliance.
Target Audience:
Underground mine operators, surface mine operators, exploration and mine geologists, leaders in environment, sustainability and community relations.
About the instructor:
Heather Kaminsky is the Research Chair at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT). Heather has a PhD and B.Sc. Co-op in materials engineering and has 15 years of expertise post-graduation in advanced ore characterization, fundamentals of tailings, water treatment and the impact of clay minerals on oil extraction and tailings. Heather leads a team of researchers focused on the environmental sustainability of the energy and mining sectors in Alberta. She is passionate about finding a solution to tailings issues in the oil sands industry.